Galápagos, the isolated archipelago off the coast of Ecuador, was given its name by the Panamanian bishop who discovered it in 1535. Three hundred years later, it was put on the map, so to speak, by Charles Darwin. Considered Darwin's living laboratory, the Galápagos is a place to experience extraordinary creatures, many of which are not found anywhere else on earth. Aboard the 56-cabin National Geographic Endeavour, visitors can snorkel among sea lions and penguins, learn about endangered giant tortoises and discover a new island every day.
Our itineraries are for your inspiration. Please contact a travel advisor to customize this itinerary to fit your needs.
Arrive in Guayaquil by late evening; it’s a short drive to Hotel Hilton Colón, where you will overnight.
The next morning, take a one and-a-half-hour flight to the Galápagos, where you’ll immediately board the National Geographic Endeavour. The exact routing over the next week will depend on the Galápagos National Park Service.
The following is a representative sample of the islands we may visit during your week on board:
Bartolomé
This is an enchanting landscape where lava, mangroves and golden sand converge. Great walks and views abound, with a chance to snorkel with Galápagos penguins.
Santiago
Santiago offers close encounters with Galápagos fur seals along with an opportunity to study the inhabitants of the island’s countless tide pools.
Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz is home to the Charles Darwin Research Station. Learn about the science conducted here and visit the neighboring captive breeding program for endangered species of Galápagos giant tortoises, run by its partner in conservation, the Galápagos National Park Service.
Isabela
A small black-sand beach offers wonderful morning swimming. Enjoy a more challenging hike over rugged shoreline and a shorter walk within an iguana colony. Kayaking and deepwater snorkeling opportunities are on offer.
Fernandina
This is the youngest island in the Galápagos and one of the most pristine tropical islands left on earth. Look forward to hikes over relatively recent lava flows, and spot marine iguanas, flightless cormorants and Sally Lightfoot crabs.
Floreana
Snorkel among sea lions in the clear waters off Champion Islet. You may also find flamingos, pintail ducks and various shorebirds. Hike to a pristine white-sand beach, a favorite nesting site for sea turtles.
Española
The exclusive home to waved albatross (seasonal) and particularly colorful marine iguanas, Española is also a paradise for Darwin’s finches, sea lions galore and the famous blue-footed boobies. Snorkel and stroll along the island’s lovely beaches.
Disembark and fly to Guayaquil. The late afternoon and evening are free to explore the city. Overnight at Hotel Hilton Colón and fly home the next morning.
Contact a travel advisor to book your custom itinerary. Fill out the form or call (630) 734-4610.
Andrew Harper members have access to full travel-planning services through Andrew Harper Travel.
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